Hailuogou is a must-see attraction for self-driving tours in western Sichuan.

Hailuogou is located in Moxi Town, Luding County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is an important part of the Gongga Mountain Scenic Area and a national nature reserve. It is different from other famous scenic spots in China with its four unique features: glaciers, snow peaks, hot springs, and virgin forests. Here is a detailed introduction to Hailuogou: Geographical Location and Natural Scenery Location and Topography: Hailuogou is located on the east slope of Gongga Mountain, which is a very high mountain on the eastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It is about 319 kilometers away from Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, and is an ideal place to explore natural wonders. Hailuogou has a complex terrain and a special climate type. The foot of the mountain is like spring all year round, with a pleasant climate. The top of the mountain is covered with snow all year round at an altitude of more than 5,000 meters, with an average annual temperature of about -9 degrees Celsius. Glacier Wonders: Hailuogou is famous for its low-altitude modern glaciers. The glaciers here were formed 16 million years ago and are called modern marine glaciers in geology. Among them, the Great Icefall is 1,080 meters high and 1,100 meters wide, which is the highest and largest icefall in China, equivalent to 15 times the size of the Huangguoshu Waterfall. It is a magnificent and extraordinary sight. Sunshine on the Golden Mountain: Hailuogou is surrounded by 45 peaks with an altitude of more than 6,000 meters, and the peaks are covered with snow for thousands of years, shining with silver light. Whenever the weather is clear, the east is white, and the brilliant glow shines directly on the snow peaks, dozens of snow peaks are covered with a layer of golden light, which is the famous "Sunshine on the Golden Mountain". Hot Springs and Virgin Forests Snow Valley Hot Spring: In Hailuogou, you can enjoy the comfort of natural hot springs in the snow. The temperature of the hot spring water ranges from 45°C to 90°C, which is an excellent choice for relaxing your body and mind. Virgin Forest: The forest area of Hailuogou is 70 square kilometers. Along the mountain road, you will be attracted by the ever-changing plant landscape beside you. The trees here are lush and green, which is a good place to watch wild animals and plants. History, Culture, and Folk Customs Multiculturalism: Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, where Hailuogou is located, is a corridor of multiculturalism in the Kham area. There are 13 ethnic groups living here, including Han, Yi, Tibetan, Bai, and Mongolian. Their culture and customs are integrated with the natural scenery of Hailuogou, forming a unique tourism experience. Ancient Tea Horse Road: Hailuogou is a must-pass place on the ancient Tea Horse Road to Tibet, where the footprints of our ancestors' hard work and exploration are left. Travel Information Tickets and Transportation: The ticket for Hailuogou Scenic Area is CNY 90 per person, and the sightseeing bus ticket is CNY 70 per person. You can drive from Chengdu, which takes about 4 hours. In addition, there are direct buses and shuttle buses to Hailuogou. Opening Hours: The opening hours of Hailuogou Scenic Area are 7:30–14:00 in summer and autumn, and 8:00–13:00 in winter and spring. In short, Hailuogou has become a shining pearl of Sichuan tourism with its magnificent natural scenery, rich ecological landscape, and unique historical and cultural charm. Whether you want to experience the shock of glacier wonders, enjoy the comfort of hot springs, or explore the charm of multiculturalism, Hailuogou can meet your needs.